How to obtain a criminal record check for work in Canada?

A criminal record check is one of the main documents required by employers in Canada, especially in professions involving work with children, the elderly, and vulnerable groups. It is important for immigrants to correctly obtain both a Ukrainian police record and a Canadian check. This article provides a detailed guide: from obtaining a Ukrainian certificate to ordering a Canadian check through the RCMP or local police, as well as subsequent translation and legalization.

1. Types of criminal record checks in Canada

  • Local Police Criminal Record Check — basic level check, carried out by the municipal police.

  • RCMP Criminal Record Check — federal level check through the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC).

  • Vulnerable Sector Check — extended check for work with vulnerable groups (children, the elderly, etc.).

  • Name-Based Check — search by name without fingerprints (less accurate).

  • Fingerprint-Based Check — includes biometric data, required for RCMP.

2. Obtaining a Ukrainian criminal record check

  1. Personal presence – Contact the territorial division of the National Police of Ukraine at your place of registration.
  2. Package of documents – Passport (original + copy) – Identification code (TIN)

– Application on police form 3. Terms – 10–30 business days depending on the region. 4. Issuance – The certificate is valid for 1–3 months (the expiration date is indicated).

3. Translation and legalization of Ukrainian certificate

  1. Translation by a certified translator – Make sure the translator is accredited by a provincial association (ATIA, CTTIC). – Include the translator's certificate and notarization.

  2. Apostille (if necessary) – If your employer or Canadian institution requires it, obtain an apostille from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. – The apostille is affixed to the original certificate.

4. Canadian criminal record check: options

Type of check Description Used for
Local Police Check Check against local police databases General employment
RCMP Check (CPIC) Federal fingerprint check through the RCMP Immigration matters, high-level positions
Vulnerable Sector Check Extended check with analysis of work with vulnerable groups, includes sector search Work with children, the elderly, people with disabilities

5. Submitting a request to the Calgary Police Service

  1. Online or in person – Go to the Calgary Police Service website and select Criminal Record Check. – Or make an appointment at the station.
  2. Documents – Passport or driver's license – Two passport-size photos
  3. Fingerprints (optional) – Not usually required for a local check.
  4. Fees and processing times – $20–$30 CAD; 5–10 business days.

6. Submitting a request to the RCMP (federal check)

  1. Fingerprint collection – Have your fingerprints taken at an authorized agency (police or private services).

  2. Completing form C216C – Download from the RCMP website and fill in the details.

  3. Sending documents – Fingerprints + completed form + copy of passport + $75 CAD payment to the RCMP address.

  4. Timeframe – 10–14 weeks; no express option available.

7. Vulnerable Sector Check

  1. Application and confirmation of need – A letter from your employer confirming the need to work with vulnerable groups is required.

  2. Check through local police or RCMP – Includes analysis of criminal record, conditional sentences, and supervision programs.

  3. Cost and timeframe – $50–$60 CAD; 5–10 business days.

8. Technical requirements and documents

  • Passport or driver's license (ID)
  • Police report (for Ukrainian reference)
  • Payment receipts
  • Fingerprints (for RCMP)
  • Letter of need (for Vulnerable Sector)

9. Terms and cost

Check Term Cost
Local Police Check 5–10 business days $20–$30 CAD
RCMP CPIC Check 10–14 weeks $75 CAD
Vulnerable Sector Check 5–10 business days $50–$60 CAD
Ukrainian Police Certificate 10–30 days free or nominal fee

10. Tips for successful application

  1. Keep copies of your documents
  2. Plan ahead — the worst deadlines for RCMP
  3. Check your status online
  4. Consult an immigration lawyer for complex cases

Following this algorithm will help you obtain the necessary criminal record certificates from both Ukraine and Canada in a timely manner and successfully find employment in Calgary.